North Conway Country Club

Course Description: First established in 1895 in the Saco River-lined farmlands below North Conway Village, the North Conway Country Club provides the premier golf experience in Mt. Washington Valley. This spectacularly scenic 18-hole championship course has water hazards coming into play on five holes and numerous sand bunkers spread throughout its design. Rated as one of the Top Ten Golf Courses in New Hampshire, the course is consistently and impeccably maintained and is a good test of golf at all levels. The natural turf range includes separate practice areas for chipping, putting and bunkers.

Signature Hole: Number 5. This par four dogleg runs along the Saco River where, on the tee boxes, you might see fly fishermen, canoeists or kayakers on the river. The tee shot requires accuracy to a small landing area. Hit the ball left and you'll find yourself either OOB or in a grassy ravine that runs along the left side and then turns right bisecting the fairway about 225 yards from the back tees. The second shot is a short iron to a small undulating green guarded by bunkers left and right of the run up and a steep drop off in the back. Birdies can be made here, but three good shots are required.

Most Scenic Hole: Number 14. This is the longest par four on the course, with all four teeing areas surrounded by towering maple and oak trees. This creates a narrow chute requiring a straight shot to the wide fairway. The long second shot (third for most ladies) is to an elevated, tiered green framed by giant bunkers right and left. The panoramic views of Mt. Washington and the Moat Range from the green are spectacular.

Clubhouse: The North Conway CC clubhouse is a two-story cedar shake building overlooking the course below. On the lower level you’ll find the pro shop, business office and member locker rooms. The stairway leads to the second story dining room (open to the public) with unparalleled views of the golf course, North Conway Village and the mountains from the huge deck. The deck also provides a front row seat for viewing first tee drives, the practice putting green and spectacular summer sunsets.

Restaurant/Lounge: The Ledgeview Grille is open daily in-season serving breakfast, lunch and beverages. Dine on the large deck with its fantastic views of the course and mountains or in the spacious air-conditioned dining room. The lounge has a full liquor license and is usually open until 7:00pm for "sunset cocktails". The menu features ”grill room” classics along with daily specials – all moderately priced. Hours may vary early/late in the season.

Lodging: None on site. Many resorts, hotels, motels and B&B’s are located within minutes of North Conway, some within walking distance. Check this MWV Chamber site for Lodging opportunities near the Club.

History and Anecdotes:

• In 1891, the legendary Kearsage Hotel operated on the site of what is now the North Conway CC. Rates were $3 to $4 a day and the luxuries of steam heat and electric lights were offered!

• In 1895, two greens were built and, in order to keep grazing sheep and cattle away, were surrounded by barbed wire fence.

• In 1900, these Kearsage "golf links" were expanded to a 9-hole course and, in 1985, grew to a full 18 holes.

• Prior to 1924, any golf pro traveling through or staying in the area was the "de facto" pro at the Kearsarge Hotel during their stay.

• In 1932, an eclipse brought thousands of spectators via the Boston and Maine RR (now the Conway Scenic Railroad) to watch from the club’s natural amphitheater.